Transport Canada Drone Registration 2026 — New Fines, Rules & Compliance Guide

Updated February 2026 — Transport Canada's drone regulations are stricter than ever, with fines reaching $3,000 for individuals flying without proper registration. Whether you just bought your first DJI Mavic or you're a commercial operator running inspections, here's everything you need to know about drone registration in Canada.

Do I Need to Register My Drone in Canada?

Yes — if your drone weighs between 250 grams and 25 kilograms. This includes most popular consumer and commercial drones:

• DJI Mavic 3 / Mavic 3 Pro (895g) — Registration required
• DJI Air 3 (720g) — Registration required
• DJI Avata 2 (377g) — Registration required
• Autel EVO II (1150g) — Registration required
• DJI Mini 4 Pro (249g) — Exempt for recreational use (under 250g)

Important: Even the DJI Mini 4 Pro (249g) requires registration if you fly commercially or in controlled airspace. The "under 250g exemption" only applies to recreational flights in uncontrolled airspace.

How to Register Your Drone with Transport Canada

1. Create an account on Transport Canada's Drone Management Portal (drone.tc.gc.ca)
2. Enter your drone details — make, model, serial number, weight
3. Pay the $5 registration fee (valid for 3 years)
4. Receive your registration number — format: C-XXXX-XXXXX
5. Display the number on your drone — this is where most pilots get stuck

Where to Put Your Registration Number

Transport Canada requires your registration number to be clearly visible on the exterior of your drone, readable without tools. The number must be:

• Legible — use contrasting colours against the drone body
• Durable — must survive flight conditions (marker pen WILL fade)
• Visible — cannot be hidden under propellers or battery covers

Most pilots place the registration decal on the underside of the drone body or on the battery compartment lid. For DJI drones, the flat area between the rear arms is ideal.

Penalties for Flying Without Registration

Transport Canada takes drone compliance seriously. Penalties include:

• Individuals: Up to $3,000 per offence
• Corporations: Up to $15,000 per offence
• Additional charges for flying in restricted airspace, near airports, or without a pilot certificate

RCMP and local police can request your registration at any time. If your drone goes down or is involved in an incident, having visible registration numbers speeds up the process and protects you legally.

Basic vs. Advanced Pilot Certificate

Beyond registration, Transport Canada requires pilot certification:

• Basic Certificate: Required for all registered drones. Online exam, 35 questions, $10 fee. Allows flights in uncontrolled airspace only.
• Advanced Certificate: Required for flights near people, in controlled airspace, or above 122m (400ft). Requires flight review with examiner.

Drone Registration Checklist for Canadian Pilots

• ☑️ Drone registered on Transport Canada portal ($5, valid 3 years)
• ☑️ Registration number displayed on drone exterior (weatherproof decal)
• ☑️ Basic or Advanced pilot certificate obtained
• ☑️ Pilot certificate carried during all flights
• ☑️ NAV Canada flight authorization (if flying in controlled airspace)
• ☑️ Liability insurance (recommended, required for commercial ops)